National BRA Day Launched to Increase Breast Reconstruction Awareness

Photo by Fred Greissing, From PSF

In an effort to increase awareness for the breast reconstruction options of mastectomy patients, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the Plastic Surgery Foundation (PSF) organized the National Breast Reconstruction Awareness (BRA) Day. National BRA Day will be launched on October 17, 2012.

The effort includes the U.S. and 20 other countries attempting to reach the 70 percent of female breast cancer survivors who are eligible for breast reconstruction but are not being informed of their surgical options.

National BRA Day was set up to ensure the women, who are grappling with their new appearance after surviving breast cancer and undergoing the life-saving surgery, are being informed and supported by medical professionals working toward the patient’s best interest.

Jewel Chosen as the National Spokesperson

New York Times bestselling poet, humanitarian, and Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, Jewel, has been chosen as the national spokesperson. She has written a song recognizing breast reconstruction patients and will be performing a charitable concert in New Orleans.

The concert will take place October 29, 2012, during Plastic Surgery The Meeting and the proceeds from the concert will be donated to the PSF. The PSF will then use the donations to support national and local breast reconstruction organizations.

The ASPS President, Dr. Malcolm Z. Roth, said about Jewel’s involvement: “We are thrilled that Jewel will be lending her time, talent and humanitarian spirit to National BRA Day. We feel that her passionate voice will help bring awareness to this important cause, and inspire women who are on the road to recovery and a full life beyond breast cancer.”

More information about National BRA Day, Jewel’s song and benefit concert, corporate and charity partnerships, how you can get involved, and more can be found on the BRA Day website or the ASPS Facebook Page.